Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica is home to exceptional biodiversity, rich forests, and vibrant marine ecosystems. But safeguarding this natural legacy requires strategic investment, strong governance, and long-term collaboration. The Dominica National Conservation Trust Fund (DNCTF), with support from the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF) and other partners, is rising to this challenge—delivering targeted solutions and building institutional capacity to secure Dominica’s environment for generations to come.
Strengthening Governance and Operational Systems
In 2024, the DNCTF achieved a major milestone with the approval of its foundational governance documents and internal policies, aligning with the international Standards of Practice for Conservation Trust Funds. These efforts underscore the Fund’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional efficiency.
To enhance strategic decision-making, the DNCTF established a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), bringing expert voices into project design and implementation. These improvements, supported by the CBF, are helping the Fund better manage resources and attract future investment.
Building Regional Partnerships and Shared Learning
The DNCTF has played an active role in regional knowledge exchange and technical collaboration through initiatives supported by CBF and other development partners:
- Caribbean Regional Architecture for Biodiversity (CRAB) Project: DNCTF participated in regional discussions and gender assessments that informed the development of its Gender Policy in late 2024.
- USAID Sustainable Financing Program: DNCTF hosted a three-day workshop in Dominica, building capacity among peer NCTFs from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Suriname.
- Caribbean Organizations for a Resilient Environment (CORE) Project: With support from CBF and CUSO International, DNCTF engaged volunteers to support conservation project development and implementation.
- Capital-Raising Strategy Collaboration: DNCTF contributed to a regional capital strategy effort led by the Bahamas Protected Areas Fund (BPAF), aimed at strengthening long-term financial resilience.
Expanding Conservation Leadership Across the Caribbean Region
Through participation in major regional and international events, DNCTF leadership is helping elevate Dominica’s conservation agenda and influence. Notable highlights include:
- The RedLAC 2024 Congress and pre-congress workshop in Saint Lucia, where the DNCTF shared financing models for Caribbean conservation.
- The Gulf Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI77) Conference in Guadeloupe, showcasing local innovations in marine resource management.
- The Sargassum Conference in Grenada, where the DNCTF’s Vice-Chair contributed strategies on sargassum mitigation to support Caribbean ecosystems and economies.
- These platforms, often supported by the CBF, ensure Dominica’s voice is part of shaping the region’s conservation future.
Launching Grantmaking and Funding Access in 2025
With technical guidance from the CBF, the DNCTF has finalized its Grant-Making Framework and is preparing to launch its first call for proposals in March 2025. This marks a new chapter in the Fund’s evolution, offering direct financial support for civil society organizations, community-led projects, and scientific research aligned with national conservation priorities.
In parallel, the DNCTF is working to build a long-term financial sustainability strategy to support a stable, well-resourced pipeline of conservation investments.
Embedding Gender Equity in Conservation
In January 2025, the DNCTF participated in the Gender Mainstreaming Workshop in Grenada, hosted through the CORE project and financed by CUSO International and Global Affairs Canada. These efforts, including the development of the DNCTF’s own Gender Policy, are helping embed equity and inclusion into all aspects of the Fund’s operations. This ensures that women and marginalized communities are empowered as key environmental stewards.
Looking Ahead
As the DNCTF enters its next phase of growth, its strategic focus remains clear—improve conservation impact, secure long-term financing, and strengthen community partnerships. With continued collaboration and technical support from the CBF and other partners, the DNCTF is well-positioned to scale its efforts, mobilize new resources, and support Dominica’s unique biodiversity for future generations.
